Mudslides hit tracks, halt train service near Seattle

SEATTLE (AP) — Heavy weekend rain has caused mudslides around western Washington, including a handful that have stopped passenger train service between Seattle and the city of Everett, about 25 miles north.

Sound Transit is providing bus service for commuters who usually take the Sounder train to work. Passenger train traffic is on hold until Wednesday afternoon.

BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas says the latest slide hit Monday afternoon, but the debris has been removed and freight trains are moving again.

The National Weather Service says Sunday's rainfall broke records.

A 1974 record set at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport was topped by an inch of rain. The new record for the day is 2.2 inches.

Olympia broke a 1997 record with 2.08 inches. Bellingham broke a 1974 record with 1.14 inches of rain.

The weather service says Sunday was Seattle's third-wettest March day ever.